- Introduction
Freelance writing is one of the most sought-after online careers because it is flexible, has unlimited earning, and can be done from anywhere. Most individuals begin writing as a part-time venture and later establish it as a full-time profession.
But how much can you earn as a freelance writer, really? The reality is that it varies based on many factors, including experience, niche of writing, client type, and the job platform where you get work. There are freelance writers who earn a few hundred dollars a month, and there are those who earn six figures a year.
In this guide, we’re going to outline how much freelance writers can earn and how you can increase your earnings.
- Determinants of Earnings of Freelance Writers
A number of determinants affect how much freelance writers can earn.
2.1. Level of Experience and Skill
Newcomers tend to charge low rates as they gain experience and develop their portfolios.
Intermediate writers with proven experience can command higher rates.
Advanced writers with solid portfolios and in-depth expertise command premium rates.
2.2. Industry and Writing Niche
Not every writing niche offers the same pay.
Well-paying niches: Finance, technical writing, healthcare, legal writing, and SaaS.
Lower-paying niches: Blog writing, lifestyle, and self-improvement.
2.3. Level of Freelance Writing Jobs
Not all freelance writing jobs compensate equally.
The best-paid work is copywriting (sales writing).
Technical writing and whitepapers are also lucrative.
Blog posts and SEO copy pay less but provide consistent employment.
2.4. Location and Type of Client
Independent businesses tend to have smaller budgets than corporate companies or global brands.
U.S., Canadian, and European clients tend to remunerate higher.
2.5. Platform or Method of Finding Clients
Freelancing platforms (Upwork, Fiverr, Freelancer) offer job security but lower rates.
Direct outreach and LinkedIn networking can land higher-paying clients.
- Average Rates for Freelance Writers
Freelance writers charge using different pricing models:
3.1. Per Word Pricing
Beginners: $0.01–$0.05 per word
Intermediate: $0.05–$0.20 per word
Experts: $0.20–$1 per word
3.2. Per Hour Pricing
Beginners: $10–$30 per hour
Intermediate: $30–$60 per hour
Experts: $60–$150 per hour
3.3. Per Project Pricing
Blog posts (1000 words): $50–$500
eBooks: $500–$5000
Website copywriting: $500–$5000
- How Much Do Beginner, Intermediate, and Expert Writers Earn?
4.1. Beginner Freelance Writer Earnings
Can earn $200–$1000 per month in the first few months.
Building experience and testimonials helps raise rates.
4.2. Intermediate Freelance Writer Earnings
Can earn $2000–$5000 per month.
Attracts better clients and higher-paying projects.
4.3. Expert Freelance Writer Earnings
Can earn $5000–$10,000+ per month.
Writes for major brands, corporations, or high-profile clients. - Most Profitable Writing Niches
To make more money, focus on a lucrative niche.
Finance and Cryptocurrency – $200+ per article.
Technical Writing – $100–$300 per article.
Healthcare and Medical Writing – $150–$500 per article.
SaaS and Software Writing – $100–$400 per article.
Legal Writing – $200–$1000 per article.
- Where to Find High-Paying Freelance Writing Jobs
Upwork – Good for newbies.
Fiverr – Best for providing niche writing services.
ProBlogger – High-end blog writing jobs.
LinkedIn – Network directly with business owners.
Direct Outreach – Email prospective clients for high-paying work. - 7 Tips to Boost Your Freelance Writing Earnings
Negotiate Higher Rates – Always negotiate more if you produce high-quality content.
Specialize in a High-Paying Niche – Technical, finance, and SaaS writing are more lucrative.
Build a Portfolio – Display your best work on a personal site.
Find Clients Directly – Skip low-paying job boards by contacting businesses. - Conclusion
Freelance writing is an excellent career option with unlimited income potential. With good writing skills, a profitable niche, and effective marketing, you can grow your income and establish a thriving writing business.
Begin today, and you might be earning thousands of dollars each month as a freelance writer!